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News
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Foote pleased government finally approves St. Lawrence wind power project October 3, 2006 |
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Judy Foote, Opposition Critic for Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
and MHA for the District of Grand Bank, says she is pleased that government
has finally approved a wind power project near the community of St.
Lawrence.
In 2001, the NeWind Group was selected to undertake a Wind Energy Demonstration project in the province. After the company did some preliminary work, St. Lawrence was chosen as the best suited site for this initiative. Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro announced its intentions to move forward with this project in 2003, however, it was put on hold by the current government once they took power. "I am pleased government has finally seen the value of this wind power project, and listened to my renewed call for this initiative a few weeks ago, " said Ms. Foote. "I was very disappointed when the Williams government placed the St. Lawrence project on hold in 2003, even though detailed preliminary work had been completed. Now that the NeWind Group has once again been given approval to develop this site after a three year delay, I am calling on the province to ensure benefits are maximized for the people of the Burin Peninsula. "Our region is currently suffering from an idle shipyard facility and FPI plant closures. The possibility of fabricating wind turbines locally in Marystown should certainly be considered in an attempt to provide new opportunities for an already skilled and world -class workforce at our fabrication facilities. Local workers should also get first opportunity for employment during the construction and operational phases of the project. "If done right, this project has the potential to generate new economic benefits and potential for various regions of the province. Government must be vigilant and ensure that maximum benefits are achieved through fabrication and employment opportunities that will benefit the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. Wind power is our resource and it must be developed using the skills, supplies and expertise that our people have continuously demonstrated."
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